Govt warns of stern action if fires found acts of sabotage

The interim government has said it is aware of public concern over the recent major fires reported in different parts of the country and assured that all such incidents are being investigated thoroughly.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the government said security and law enforcement agencies are working with “utmost vigilance” to protect lives and property. “Any credible evidence of sabotage or arson will be met with a swift and resolute response,” the statement read.

The government warned that no act of criminality or provocation would be allowed to disrupt public life or the ongoing political process.

“If these fires prove to be acts of sabotage, and their aim is to sow panic and division, they’ll succeed only if we allow fear to overtake our reason and our resolve,” the statement said, calling for unity and calm in the face of attempts to destabilize the situation.

“Bangladesh has faced many challenges before, and together we will face any threats to our new democracy with unity, calm and determination. We have nothing to fear but fear itself,” it added.